Travis Hunter is one of the most electrifying NFL prospects in recent memory, winning the Heisman Trophy and notching records in both offense and defense.
But just hours ahead of the NFL Draft, not everyone is convinced he’ll dominate at the next level.
Colin Cowherd isn’t sold on Travis Hunter
FOX Sports commentator Colin Cowherd recently expressed concerns about Hunter’s NFL future, suggesting that the highly touted two-way player might struggle to meet expectations.
“I’m going to throw Travis Hunter out as a player that I think could underachieve,”Cowherd said on his podcast.
“I think coming to a bad team, he’ll have a lot of leverage, he’ll play both ways. I could see that being a problem.”
Hunter has taken college football by storm, excelling as both a cornerback and wide receiver.
His résumé speaks for itself-Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year, Biletnikoff Award winner, and a Heisman Trophy to cap it all off.
He played a staggering 1,484 snaps last season, splitting time between offense and defense, and put up jaw-dropping numbers on both sides of the ball.
Still, Cowherd and his co-host John Middlekauf believe the transition to the NFL may not be as smooth as some expect.
Hunter is projected to be a top-three draft pick, which likely means landing on a struggling team.
That alone presents challenges, but Cowherd also questions whether playing both ways is a sustainable approach in the NFL.
Former NFL scout Middlekauf pointed out just how demanding that would be at the professional level.
“Just playing corner alone, think of the wide receivers right now in the NFL. You’re chasing those guys for 60, 70 snaps as the No. 1 corner. And then he’d try to play full-time wide receiver? I think it would be borderline impossible.”
Another potential concern is Hunter’s physical build.
While his skills are undeniable, his lean frame makes him more susceptible to injuries.
He also lacks elite speed and will need to refine his footwork.
Despite these concerns, Hunter has consistently defied expectations.
His ability to be both a shutdown corner and a legitimate receiving threat is rare, and he has the confidence to take on the challenge at the next level.
Whether or not he can successfully maintain his two-way dominance in the NFL remains to be seen, there’s no doubt he’ll have plenty of eyes on him when he steps onto the field.
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